Questions abound for Combs

An interview with one-time Ole Miss commit Marquel Combs is a two-way street. The sought-after junior college defensive tackle has as many questions as he has answers. He carries 41 scholarship offers and has his pick of the litter when it comes to choosing a school, but the Pierce (Calif.) Community College star isn't satisfied.

He wants input and wants it now. What are his chances of being a five-star? Is he a lock to be a First-Team Junior College All American? When does Rivals.com rank junior college players?

The give and take is actually refreshing. There's a reason for all the curiosity, though.

"I'm trying to get better," Combs said. "I'm trying to be where Cameron Newton was."

You'd think a player with 40-plus offers would be interested in trimming his list. Combs is not. You'd think he'd tire of the constant badgering from Division-I coaches. Wrong again.

Instead, he says all 41 programs stand on even ground and invites more phone calls. His visit schedule says more than he ever will. He'll take in Kansas' game with TCU this weekend and visit California on Dec. 7. In between the two trips, he'll hit Kansas State.

"As of right now, I know I'll be going to K-State when they play Texas," he said. "I like K-State. They're a ranked team with a lot to offer. I like what they do with the juco players. I think that would be a good spot for me. I think I could help them win a national championship."

Combs also plans to visit Hawaii sometime this season, but hasn't set a date. Otherwise, mum is the word on his recruitment. His travel itinerary is the only discernable clue.

That said, don't expect the junior college star to make a pledge while on a college campus. He's gone that route before.

"I'm not committing on any trip," Combs said. "The next time I commit is when I sign on signing day, Dec. 18."

One of the few things Combs is direct about is what he's looking for in a school. His lengthy offer list has muddied up a lot of things, but his evaluation points remain clear.

"I'm looking at game day atmosphere, playing time, the environment and just if I feel like I could stay there," he said.

Combs plans to arrive on the campus of the school of his choice in time for spring practice.